Evonik Moves on Plant Extract Firm Botanica

Specialty chemicals firm Evonik Industries recently inked an agreement to purchase Switzerland-based plant extract manufacturer Botanica, positioning the company to progress on its goal of becoming a leader in the active cosmetic ingredient market.

The transaction will enable to develop and introduce a range of sustainable base extracts and strengthen its existing portfolio of actives. Botanica’s capabilities in producing customizable extracts will expand the range of products that Evonik’s Care Solutions business line can offer.

“Botanica’s outstanding track record in customization, in sustainable sourcing, and production aligns perfectly with our goals to become the sustainable specialties partner,” Yann d’Hervé, head of the Care Solutions business line, said in a recent announcement.

Once the transaction reaches completion, the business will become a part of Evonik’s Care Solutions business line under the firm’s life sciences division Nutrition & Care.

“Finding a strong partner with a trusted sustainability record can be challenging. With Evonik we feel confident that Botanica can continue to operate according to our philosophy, while bringing our high-quality plant extracts to a wider customer base,” said Andreas Wälti, managing director of the extracts manufacturer.

The move to acquire Botanica comes after Evonik struck a deal in June to purchase Spain-based Infinitec Activos, a developer and manufacturer of novel active delivery systems for cosmetic active ingredient applications. Its portfolio includes seven delivery systems and natural-based active ingredients. Evonik said Infinitec Activos’ products have “strong synergy potential” with its existing cosmetic solutions platform.